The issue of fertilizer availability and efficiency remains a key challenge for farmers in improving agricultural yields. As an innovative solution, a community service team from the Faculty of Agriculture UGM conducted training on biochar production and application for farmer groups in Koripan, Matesih, Karanganyar, from April to November 2024.
Led by Susanti Mugi Lestari, S.P., M.Si., Ph.D., from the Department of Agricultural Microbiology, the team collaborated with lecturers from various departments, including Dr. Desy Putri Handayani, S.Pi., Dr. Sulistiowati, S.Si., M.Si., Dr. Endah Prihatiningtyastuti, S.P., M.Si., Eko Hardianto, S.Pi., M.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si (Han), Dr. Ega Adhi Wicaksono, S.Pi., from the Department of Fisheries; Agung Dian Kharisma, Ph.D., from the Department of Agricultural Microbiology; and Angga Prasetya, S.P., M.Sc., from the Department of Soil Science. Students from various study programs in the Faculty of Agriculture UGM also participated.
The training aimed to enhance fertilization efficiency and soil fertility using biochar—an effective soil amendment for improving land quality and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.
“We want to encourage farmers to use biochar as an innovative alternative in soil management, which is not only environmentally friendly but also helps optimize crop yields,” said Susanti.
The activities included socialization on biochar benefits, technical training on producing biochar from organic waste, and mentoring for its application in the fields. Through a participatory approach, farmers were actively involved in every stage of the activity.
The training results showed high enthusiasm from farmer groups, who acknowledged the potential of biochar in increasing agricultural productivity while maintaining land sustainability. This program reaffirms the Faculty of Agriculture UGM’s commitment to supporting the SDGs, including SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 15: Life on Land, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Writer: Agrit Kirana Bunda
Editor: Desi Utami
Documentation: Community Service Team